Seal Integrity: Conductivity Leak Test

Purpose

This test determines the seal integrity and 'E' dimensions of a hot fill container.

Description

The max and min 'E' dimensions are measured for 24 bottles. The sealing surface of twelve bottles is scored using the Instron to evenly score the entire surface. All 24 bottles are then hot filled at a specified temperature and capped with closures that have been soaked in 130°F water to soften them. The bottles are individually inverted into a pool of salt water. The bottles are checked for seal integrity by determining if current flows between the submerged top of the bottle and a pool of salt water using an ohm-meter. If the bottle does not leak, up to 3.0 psi pressure may be applied to the bottle by squeezing it to determine whether the closure leaks under slight pressure. The post testing 'E' dimensions are then measured.

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